Discover the hidden beaches of the Catalonian coastline

10 JUNE 2014

With pristine hidden beaches, lagoons, salt waters, sand dunes and the fishing ports of the Ebro Delta National Park, it's easy to see why a magical place so ecologically rich and beautiful as Terres de l'Ebre, situated in Catalonia in the north east of Spain – famously home to Barcelona – is one of the most exciting destinations for a seaside holiday. HELLO! Online take a look at four breathtaking beach towns, where you could be headed this summer…

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L'Ametlla de Mar is home to 8.6 miles of beautiful sandy beaches

L'Ametlla de Mar
This village is definitely worth visiting to soak up the wonderful atmosphere of the fishing village and the beautiful Mediterranean coves, found along its 8.6-mile coastline. The star of the area is the port, one of the main ones in Catalonia, where the fishing boats moor and where the sale of fresh fish takes place. Next on the agenda: a stroll along the promenade - Paseo Marítimo - before heading to the Sant Jordi d'Alfama castle, a fortress dating back to the 18th century just around the corner of the street of the same name.

Sant Carles de la Ràpitais now one of most dynamic fishing ports of Catalonia

Sant Carles de la Ràpita
Once an Arab fortress at the mouth of the Ebro river, Sant Carles de la Ràpita is now one of most dynamic fishing ports of Catalonia, which is reflected in its wonderful culinary offering.

The promenade, its enchanting square, the gothic-style Església Nova church, the spectacular viewpoint from La Guardiola, the lighthouse, fish market, the fisherman's port and the gold sand beaches – especially the Trabucador beach in the Delta – are the most important landmarks of this place. Never mind the chance to try water activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing…

Don't miss local delights such as suquet de peix inLes Cases d'Alcanar

Les Cases d'Alcanar
The tranquility of the charming old-fashioned fishing village of Les Cases d'Alcanar, complete with geraniums in every window, reflects the beauty to be found on the surrounding seven-plus miles of beaches and coves. Check out the Martinenca Beach for a wonderful sea-mountain contrast – the Montsía range creates a stunning backdrop. Also known for its prestigious cuisine, make sure you don't miss the local delights such as fish soup (suquet de peix), local paella (arrossejat) and lobster stew (caldereta de langosta).

L'Ampolla is home to some of the best conserved areas of the coastline in Catalonia

L'Ampolla
Located to the north of the Delta, the beautiful fishing village of L'Ampolla is surrounded by some of the best beaches and coves of the region – as well as rice dishes with Europe's best rice.

Here you'll find some of the best conserved areas of the coastline in Catalonia, and a great deal of the area is protected. Don't miss Cap Roig, a stunning beach surrounded by vegetation that's 100% Mediterranean.